Alfred University takes coronavirus precautions

From Alfred University president Mark Zupan:

 

As the covid-19/coronavirus situation continues to unfold across the globe, this note is to let you know about the preparations we are making and policies we are implementing to maintain a safe environment at our University.

During Spring Break (March 8-15), we will make on-campus housing available, free of charge, to students affected by coronavirus-related emergency declarations. International students whose home countries have been identified as “Do not Travel” areas by the U.S. State Department, and domestic students who are unable to travel home or are concerned about traveling home because of declarations of public health states of emergency in their hometown or state, are welcome to remain in our residence halls over Spring Break. Please contact Vicki Gebel, director of Residence Life (gebel@alfred.edu) for an on-line link to request on-campus Spring Break accommodations.

 

Our University is reviewing the status for various countries and states daily. We are not currently cancelling University-sponsored domestic travel. However, any international travel to a country that has declared a level 3 or level 4 covid-19 status will be cancelled. Anyone returning from a country designated at level 3 or 4 status will be expected to self-quarantine for 14 days before returning to our campus. 

 

The coronavirus situation is a continually evolving one, and we expect to see more countries added to the “no travel” list as the weeks progress, and will watch the status of our domestic front as well; we will continue to update the policy and the affected areas as warranted.

 

For a list of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)-designated states and countries currently listed as high-risk areas, go to this link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices.

 

For a list of the New York State Department of Health-designated states and countries currently listed as high risk areas, visit this link: https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronavirus/.

 

It is of utmost importance that all members of our campus community take the proper steps and preventive measures to ensure that any impact of the coronavirus on our campus is mitigated. This includes practicing safe hygiene—covering your mouth when sneezing/coughing; washing hands thoroughly with soap and/or applying hand sanitizer; and taking maximum advantage of sick leave available to faculty and administrative staff if flu-like symptoms develop. Additionally, any faculty or staff members experiencing a fever must stay home, and may only return to work after they have been fever-free for 48 hours.

 

We encourage all faculty, staff, and students to get a flu shot. It won’t prevent contracting covid-19, but it will reduce weakening of the immunological system. Flu vaccines are available at Wegman’s and Walmart in Hornell. We are determining whether and when we can administer the flu vaccine on campus and will provide updates if that option becomes available. We strongly recommend students who do go home for Spring Break to get a flu shot while they are home.

 

We also encourage faculty and staff to take advantage of the Telemedicine program offered by Alfred University’s health insurance provider, Univera. For more information about the program, procedures, and co-pays please contact Mark Guinan, head of our Human Resources department (guinan@alfred.edu).

 

If you have questions about our University’s general policies with respect to the coronavirus outbreak please contact Michael Kozlowski, executive director of Marketing, Communication, and Government Relations (kozlowski@alfred.edu).

 

For any questions related to returning to campus from an affected area or self-isolation durations and procedures please contact Del Rey Honeycutt, director of the Wellness Center and interim dean of students (honeycutt@alfred.edu).

 

We want to ensure that we keep Alfred University a safe environment for all our students, faculty and staff. With some common sense procedures and the cooperation of all of us we are confident we can. We will communicate further as developments warrant.

Variety's Wellsville Area Satellite continues to deliver

Variety Kids Telethon for Children's Hospital and other charities raised this past weekend $1,055,222. The Wellsville Area Satellite also continued to deliver. Co-founder Tim Colligan said the local effort raised $6,847. The 40 year total is $372,878. This was the final year for the Wellsville Area Satellite and Colligan and helpers did not disappoint.

Absolut Care of Houghton, others to be sold after bankruptcy filing

This information is provided by McKnight's Long-term care news:

Four New York nursing homes could soon have a new operator — and new names — if the state’s Department of Health approves an acquisition plan.

Personal Healthcare LLC filed plans with the agency to approve the sale of four facilities previously operated by Absolut Care, Buffalo Business First reported.

Absolut filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September, citing a “crushing rent burden” for its facilities. It also announced plans to close a 200-bed facility in Orchard Park, NY.

The acquisition involves four nursing facilities located in Dunkirk, Eden, Houghton and Salamanca, NY. The facilities have a total of 300 beds. Their names will change to the Dunkirk Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Eden Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, Houghton Rehabilitation & Nursing Center and Salamanca Rehabilitation & Nursing Center if the deal is approved. Personal Healthcare plans to increase occupancy at the facilities if it receives approval, the report stated.

Wellsville: Free Community Meal sponsored by St. John's Episcopal Church

Another delicious Free Community Meal sponsored by St. John's Episcopal Church on North Main Street in Wellsville will take place on Sunday, March 8th. from 12:15 p.m. until 1:00 p.m.  The menu includes Meatball Subs, Mac and Cheese, Tossed Salad, Beverages and Homemade Desserts.  Look for the sign outside the church and join us for a great meal and enjoyable conversation. The dining hall is accessible by stairs or elevator.

Kenneth Canfield, Parishioner

St. John's Episcopal Church

Wellsville, New York

NEWS: March is National Reading Month in Allegany County

WELLSVILLE – The Hope Center here is joining March is National Reading Month activities, highlighting its free reading assistance for children and adults, including those with dyslexia, weekly children book giveaways, awareness seminars on dyslexia and other reading issues, and how churches and other organizations can join together in true collaborations to do more in their communities with less cost and efforts.  It also is promoting awareness and use of community libraries throughout Allegany County.

The community outreach, a ministry of the Mission Genesee Valley coalition of churches and other Christian organizations, provides reading assistance, drop-in and information and referral services to Allegany County residents at its facility at 4194 Bolivar Road (State Route 417 West) - #5, next to  McDonald's.  Services are free.  It also is developing a Christian lending library and provides monthly seminars to help county residents acquire awareness of different types of life issues that can impact individuals and families of all backgrounds, along with available resources to address them.

The children's book giveaways will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the first three Saturdays, the 7^th, 14^th and 21^st of March. Children must attend in person and each will be allowed five selections of new and gently-used books.  A few adult books also will be available.

On the fourth Saturday, March 28, a seminar will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. to help parents, caregivers and others recognize symptoms of dyslexia and other reading issues.  The Center offers reading assistance for children and adults, by appointment only, on Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons.

A new seminar also has been scheduled at two different times, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday, March 23, and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 31.

This presentation will combine DVDs  and discussion to help equip churches, government and human services agencies and interested individuals on how to develop true collaborations that expand resources to address needs of individuals and families while, at the same time, reducing costs of providing services.

Advance registration is required for limited seating for the seminars and may be made with Casey Jones, Hope Center planning group chair, at bps461@msn.com or (484) 435-0503.  Individuals interested in upcoming Hope Center seminars, workshops, and initiatives can receive advance information by sending their names, communities of resident and the words “Subscribe - Hope Center" in the subject line to the same e-mail address.

Information on public libraries throughout Allegany County, along with their activities and services, is at www.nysl.nysed.gov/libdev/libs/publibs/3st.htm.

Subjects at the Hope Center in April will be drugs and alcohol, in May mental health, and in June a variety of prevention measures, many attributed to summer safety.  Mission Genesee Valley also will be hosting community prayer gatherings on the fourth Sundays in March focusing on suicides and in April on drugs and alcohol.  Locations are being determined.

The Hope Center is seeking to partner with individuals and organizations already involved in these focus areas to expand public awareness.  More information may be obtained from Jones or at www.facebook.com/HopeCenterAlleganyCounty.

Obituary: Pauline E. Buchholz, 84, of Genesee, PA

Pauline E. Buchholz, 84, of Genesee, PA, died Saturday, February 29, 2020 in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport. Born June 6, 1935, in Harrison Township, PA, she was the daughter of Arthur L. and Grace E. Nickerson Seeley. She was employed by Electri-Cord in Westfield and Modern Diner in Wellsville, NY. Pauline loved gardening, music, dancing, shopping, and being outside on her porch swing.  She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.  Surviving are: six children, Beverly (David) West of Galeton, George Williams of Quicksburg, VA, Robert (Allison) Williams of Dubois, Janet (Wade) Tubbs of Harrison Valley, Thomas (Patsy) Williams of Ulysses, and Essie (James) Vinson of Brooksville, FL; 21 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandson; a step-son, Dennis (Dorothy) Buchholz of Mechanicsburg; two brothers, Dee Seeley of Knoxville and Franklin (Sharon) Seeley of Westfield; a sister, Marion VanOrden of Westfield; and many nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her first husband, Roland J. Williams; her second husband, Mark R. Buchholz; a son, James Williams; three brothers, Clayton Seeley, Floyd Seeley, Lawrence H. Seeley; and three sisters, Evelyn Jadoski, Maryetta Ruth Seeley, and Lula Causer. Cremation was at Olney-Foust Crematory. Services will be private. Burial will be in Champlin Cemetery, Westfield, PA. Arrangements are entrusted to Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Obituary: Suzanna M. Stocum, 60, Bolivar

BOLIVAR - Suzanna M. Stocum, 60, of 2658 State Route 275 passed away on Sunday March 1, 2020 in the Select Specialty Hospital Erie Pa. following a brief illness. Born on December 19, 1959 in Chula Vista, CA., she was the daughter of Roger and Mary Ost Stocum. Suzanna was a graduate of the Richburg Central School. She was a Certified Nursing Assistant and was employed at the Wellsville Manor Care Center. She was a former employee of the UniMart store Bolivar, Shop N Save store Bolivar, and was the manager of the Belvedere Truck Stop.

She was a member and EMT for the Richburg Fire Dept. for many years.

Surviving are her longtime companion Stanley Button Sr. of Bolivar; three sons, Stanley Button Jr., Christopher Button, Justin (Kayla) Button, all of Bolivar; seven grandchildren; five sisters, Ethel (Shawn) Milliman of Richburg, Patience Hosmer of Bolivar, Terry Dowdell of Umatilla FL., Tara Stocum of Umatilla FL, Karla( Nick) Button of Richburg. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a sister Zeta Button. There will be no prior visitation. A memorial service will be held at a later date that will be announced. Burial in Knights Creek Cemetery Scio. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Schaffner Funeral Home Inc. Bolivar.

Wyoming County Deputies charge Fillmore driver

On February 22nd, 2020, Wyoming County Deputies were stationary in the Village of Castile when a vehicle was observed traveling over the speed limit. Deputies identified the driver as Diane Kelly, 36, of Fillmore. Deputies said a computer check showed Kelly had a suspended license. Kelly was stopped and arrested for aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the 3rd degree. She was issued appearance tickets for speed in zone and aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd degree and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Castile Court at a later date.

DiNapoli Urges Changes to Protect Children Placed in Custody of Relatives or Guardians

The state Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) is not doing enough to ensure adequate protections are in place for children who are placed in the custody of relatives or another suitable person outside the foster care system, according to an audit released today by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

“The Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) needs to do more to protect children placed with relatives or guardians outside of foster care from harm or neglect,” DiNapoli said. “OCFS lacks adequate oversight and uniform standards to ensure children in direct placement are not put into another bad situation and are kept out of harm’s way. OCFS attempted to dismiss the serious findings of our auditors rather than take proactive steps to address these glaring issues. I urge the agency to act on our recommendations.”

OCFS oversees the state’s child welfare system and is responsible for supervising and coordinating child welfare services, which are administered by 58 local Departments of Social Services (local districts) throughout the state. One alternative to foster care is direct placement, where a child is placed in the direct custody of a relative or another suitable person. In direct placement cases, courts usually order the local district to supervise the placement. State regulations require local districts to document that a family member or suitable person can safely provide for the needs of the child.

DiNapoli’s auditors found OCFS does not maintain adequate oversight of direct placements to ensure that local districts comply with applicable laws and regulations and that children are placed in safe environments. The agency does not have procedures for monitoring local districts’ handling of direct placement cases, and does little to assess their performance.

-A case where siblings were placed with an adult relative who had a history of domestic violence and suspected drug use. Despite numerous conditions that raised red flags, including a police report stating the relative kept a loaded shotgun in one of the bedrooms of the placement home, auditors could not find any indication that these conditions had been communicated to the court.

-In another case, the placement home had garbage and dirty dishes constantly present throughout the home, along with medications within children’s reach.

Local districts must also follow certain regulatory requirements, but OCFS has not developed the same kind of centralized standards, policies or procedures for the districts to follow when supervising direct placement cases, as it has for similar child welfare services such as foster care, auditors found. This includes minimum standards for home investigations.

DiNapoli’s auditors interviewed officials from 53 local districts and found that their supervision of direct placement varied, with not all cases receiving the same level of attention across, and possibly even within, the local districts. For instance:

-Local districts varied in their documentation of home investigations. While some included explicit details–for example, noting smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, sleeping spaces, and weapons–others were vague and nondescript.

-Local districts also varied in the frequency of their follow-up visits. Of the sampled cases, auditors found that, in the majority, local districts visited the placement home once a month, while others visited twice a month, weekly or less than monthly.

Local districts must also provide the court with information to make decisions regarding the safety and well-being of a child. Information on children in direct placement is tracked in CONNECTIONS, the system of record for child welfare in New York state.

OCFS uses the CONNECTIONS computer system to document information about children who are in direct placement. However, auditors found errors and discrepancies that render the data unreliable for reporting and performance measuring purposes, not to mention for accurately tracking children who have been placed. During the review of the 30 case files, auditors identified four cases where children were misclassified as being in direct placement. Additionally, while pulling the sample cases, OCFS identified and corrected discrepancies for another eight cases.

DiNapoli recommended OCFS:

-Develop procedures for monitoring local districts’ handling of direct placement cases;

-Develop procedures for county supervision of children in direct placement to ensure greater consistency across the state;

-Establish minimum standards for the safety of children in direct placement; and

-Correct the errors identified in the direct placement data and implement ways to prevent and detect input errors to ensure that information in CONNECTIONS is complete and accurate.

OCFS officials disagreed with the audit’s conclusions and the audit scope. The agency’s response, as well as replies by the auditors, are included in the audit.

Potter County: Free One-Stop Shop For Small Business Owners March 12

Opportunities are knocking for new businesses to start and for current ones to expand in Potter County. And there’s plenty of help available, whether it be technical assistance or financial support. As part of Project 2025 — an initiative to reverse the county’s population decline and strengthen communities — two county departments are teaming up to provide a free Small Business/Entrepreneur Workshop. A broad selection of subject experts and support agencies will be gathering at the Gunzburger Building in Coudersport from 1 to 3:30 p.m.on Thursday, March 12.

Potter County Planning and Community Development departments have assembled the panel to bring information to current or prospective small business owners on marketing, financial management, basic business planning and start-up details. Participating organizations include Northern Pa. Regional College, Clarion University Small Business Development Center, Visit Potter-Tioga, Pa. Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship, and Northcentral Pa. Regional Planning and Development Commission. Representatives from each organization will be available to meet with attendees to provide individualized services.

“Multiple studies have identified small businesses and tourism as two areas with significant growth potential in our region,” said Potter County Planning Director Will Hunt. “The partners who will be joining us represent a broad cross-section of services that are available at little or no cost.”

“This is just the first of many steps we will be taking to support the Project 2025 initiative,” added Ellen Russell, Potter County Director of Community Development. “A key part of revitalizing a small community is supporting and growing those businesses that contribute to an improved quality of life.”

Their comments were echoed by Abbi Peters, from the Pa. Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship: “The Pennsylvania Wilds has a $1.8 billion annual tourist industry and an impressive and diverse community of skilled artisans, craftspeople, producers, and business enterprises. We’re proudly building a large network of creative entrepreneurs to help visitors connect with unique experiences and products, while also creating new market opportunities for our businesses.”

To learn more or to register for the workshop, contact Ellen Russell at 814-274-8290, ext. 209, or erussell@pottercountypa.net.

Red Cross Month: Be a Hero, Help People in Need

BUFFALO, NY, Monday, March 2, 2020 – Not all heroes wear capes, but some wear a Red Cross vest.

 

During March — which the president of the U.S. has proclaimed as American Red Cross Month for more than 75 years — the Western and Central New York region celebrates its volunteer heroes and asks people across the area to be a hero too by attending one of several events throughout the month, donating on Red Cross Giving Day (March 25), becoming a volunteer, giving blood, or learning skills that save lives.

 

“Every day, families rely on Red Cross volunteers for urgent relief and hope during crises,” Alan H Turner II, Western and Central New York Regional CEO, said. “We honor their service during Red Cross Month and ask you to join them to make a difference.”

 

Volunteers represent more than 90 percent of the Red Cross workforce and help people every day — often after home fires, which represent most of the disasters that the Red Cross responds to every eight minutes in the U.S. Just in the past year, volunteers helped 1,362 families affected by 899 home fires in Western and Central New York. Volunteers also helped make 2,894 homes safer across the region, installing 7,678 free alarms across the region.

 

David Farrell has been a blood donor with the Red Cross since 1965, making over 850 donations for a total of more than 1,082 units of lifesaving blood that have been used by over 3,200 patients in local hospitals. Mr. Farrell is among the local heroes that will be honored at the annual Fire & Ice Gala Saturday, March 7, at the Hyatt Regency Downtown in Rochester. A limited number of tickets remain available, visit www.redcross.org/fireandiceroc for more information.

 

In addition, the Western and Central New York Region will celebrate ordinary people who have done something extraordinary to help their community at Real Heroes Breakfasts in the Finger Lakes Friday, March 27, and in the Southern Tier on Thursday, April 16. The Red Cross will also be hosting a Military Salute and Reconnection Brunch Saturday, March 28, at Monroe Community College, and has a number of other events, blood drives, and classes planned throughout Red Cross Month.

 

HOW YOU CAN BE A HERO
On March 25, Red Cross Giving Day, donate at redcross.org/givingday to #help1family who loses nearly everything to a disaster. Your gift can provide hope and urgent relief like food, shelter and other essentials. Donations are key to saving lives because they fund nearly 100 percent of Red Cross disaster relief activities.

 

You can also visit www.redcross.org/wcny to make an appointment to donate blood or platelets, register for a class in lifesaving skills like CPR and First Aid, or become a volunteer for opportunities needed in Western and Central New York, including:

 

Disaster Action Team Member: When a disaster like a home fire displaces a family from their home, trained volunteers respond to ensure that they don’t face it alone. As part of a team, help local families by wrapping a blanket around their shoulders, addressing urgent their needs like food and a safe place to stay, and connecting them with recovery assistance.

 

Home Fire Campaign Volunteer: Want to spend a rewarding day teaming with fellow volunteers to help local families in need? Install free smoke alarms and help residents create home fire escape plans through the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, which has saved at least 25 lives in Western and Central New York. The Red Cross will Sound the Alarm for fire safety this spring, with signature events in Western New York April 18, and Greater Rochester April 25. Learn more at www.soundthealarm.org/wcny.

 

Blood Donor Ambassador: Are you friendly and outgoing? Red Cross Blood Donor Ambassadors ensure that blood donors have a pleasant and fulfilling experience from the moment they arrive at a blood drive to the moment they leave.

 

Blood Transportation Specialist: Are you a dependable, safe and courteous driver and looking for a meaningful way to help save lives? You can be the critical link between blood donors and recipients. Volunteers are responsible for regular routes and are on standby for emergency runs.

Press Release: Off the Wagon Band Spring Shows 2020

Off the Wagon has over a dozen shows booked for 2020 already.  This spring the band is going to play shows at the Hornell AMVETs as part of the St. Pat’s festivities from Noon to 4 on March 14th.  OTW returns to the Hornell Moose on April 18, 9 – 1.  Playing an evening show at the Hornell AMVETs on May 2nd 8-midnight.  Then the band will be at the Off Duty Club in Belmont on June 6th 9 – 1.  Off the Wagon will make its debut on the big stage at the Palmer Opera House in Cuba on June 12th at 7pm.  Off the Wagon is known for its eclectic mix of music and instruments.  Acoustic and electric guitars, banjo, harmonica, mandolin, upright bass and resonator bass, acoustic and electric drums with five part harmonies playing modern and classic country, classic rock, southern rock, with the occasional Irish song get people dancing at our shows.  For more information on upcoming shows, videos and booking information check out the Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/pg/OfftheWagonAcoustic.

Obituary: Gordon W. “Gordie” Visseau, 69, Bolivar

Gordon W. Visseau “beloved husband, son, father and grandpa”

BOLIVAR, N.Y.---Gordon W. “Gordie” Visseau, 69, a lifelong resident of Bolivar, passed away with his loving family by his side on Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville, from complications of surgery.

Born on Saturday, September 16, 1950 in Buffalo, he was a son of Robert G. and Margaret “Margie” Sutherland Visseau.  On June 17, 1978 in Bolivar, he married Kathleen S. “Kathy” Sherwood, who survives.

He was a graduate of Bolivar High School, Class of 1968.  Gordie honorably served in the US Navy  in the Vietnam War attaining the rank of BT2.  From 1968 to 2005, he was employed by the City of Olean, retiring as a street/sewer maintainer.  After retiring from the city, he was employed part time by Sisson’s Chainsaws and Stoves in Bolivar.

Gordie was a member of the Shinglehouse American Legion Post 530 and a former member of Coudersport American Legion Post 192.  He was a very active member of the Potter County Guard, where he also served as a past treasurer. He was a member and past president of the Bolivar/Richburg Sports Boosters.  An avid hunter and fisherman, he especially enjoyed the times spent with his father in these pursuits.  He was a member of the Alma Rod and Gun Club and a former member of the Richburg Rod and Gun Club.  His greatest love was his family, especially his grandchildren.

Surviving are his wife of 41 years; his mother of Bolivar; two daughters, Kelly J. (Hank) Kellogg of Whitesville and Michele L. Visseau of Bolivar; four grandchildren, Kaylee S., Madison R., Hunter J. and Sasha; a brother, Michael R. (Kathy) Visseau of Shinglehouse; several nieces and nephews; and a brother-in-law, Loren Bernard of Ceres.

In addition to his father, Gordie was predeceased by a sister, Suzanne “Suzie” Bernard.

Family and friends may call from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, 118 South Union Street, Shinglehouse, Pa., where funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2020, with the Rev. Thomas Brown, pastor of St. Theresa Catholic Church, Shinglehouse, officiating.  Burial will be in Wells Cemetery, Oswayo, Pa.

Members of the Potter County Honor Guard will accord military honors on Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shinglehouse American Legion Post 530, 1364 Route 44S, Shinglehouse, PA 16748 or to the Potter County Honor Guard, Attention M. DeLong, 1364 Route 44S, Shinglehouse, PA 16748.

Gordie’s family has entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, Pa.

To express condolences or share a fond memory of Gordie, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page, Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home.

Obituary: Ricky L. White, Sr., 62, Black Creek

Ricky L. White, Sr.:  Loving Dad and Grandfather

Ricky L. White, Sr., 62, of 6385 Hyde Flats Rd., Black Creek, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday, March 01, 2020 at home.

Born on August 12, 1957, in Cuba, he was a son of Richard White and Avanelle “Nellie” Hamer Stocum.  On May 8, 1976, he married the former Suzanna M. “Sue” Johnson who predeceased him on June 17, 2014.

He was a graduate of Cuba Central School Class of 1976.  Ricky had been employed as a skilled laborer for Great Lakes Cheese of Cuba for 38 years retiring in 2018.  He had also been employed part time for Crown-Y Recycling of Cuba for over 30 years doing various jobs.

He loved camping, hunting, fishing, putt-putt golf, and throwing horseshoes, but most of all enjoyed activities that involved his grandchildren and being able to spend time with them.  For many years when his children were young, he coached farm league and little league baseball.  Ricky was a lifetime member and past chief of the New Hudson Fire Co.

He is survived by his mother Nell Stocum of Cuba; his children Karrie (Bronwyn McCormick) of Black Creek, Ricky L. (Jacque) White of Belfast, Joseph (Jessica Washburn) White of Cuba, Shawn-Day Dunning of West Clarksville, Erica McKelvey and Elizabeth Bagdonavicius of Olean, Ashley Irvin of Black Creek; 15 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter; four brothers, Lester (Kathy) White of Virginia, Gary (Deanna) White of      Salamanca, Larry (Bobby) White of New York and David (Norma) White of Whitney Point, NY; two sisters, Anne (Donny) Rockwell of Little Valley, Kay (Michael) Bump of Lyndon; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was predeceased by his wife and father. The family will receive friends at the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., 9 Bull Street, Cuba, on Sunday, March 8, 2020 from Noon until 4:00 p.m. at which time memorial services will be held.  The Rev. Rebecca Worth, will officiate.  The family request memorials be made to the New Hudson Fire Co., P.O. Box 1, Black Creek, NY 14714. Online condolences may be sent at www.rinkerfuneralhome.com.  

New York provides update on coronavirus

During a briefing on the novel Coronavirus at his office in midtown Manhattan, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the world-renowned Wadsworth Center — the research-intensive public health laboratory housed within the State Department of Health — is partnering with hospitals to expand surge testing capacity to 1,000 tests per day statewide for the novel coronavirus. The Wadsworth Center will provide these hospitals with instructions on how to replicate the State's test, as well as help them purchase some of the equipment necessary to develop and validate the test. 

 

The Governor also announced the state will institute a new cleaning protocol at schools and in the public transportation system to help stop any potential spread of the virus.  

 

This announcement follows the Food and Drug Administration's approval for the Wadsworth Center to begin tests for the novel Coronavirus — the first non-CDC test that has been given approval by the FDA. The first confirmed case of the novel coronavirus in New York, a woman in her thirties, was done through the State's Wadsworth testing lab.

 

"We have the best health-care system in the world, and we are leveraging that system to help contain any potential spread of the novel coronavirus in New York," Governor Cuomo said. "We will expand testing so we can do 1,000 tests per day thanks to the State's world-renowned Wadsworth Lab in partnership with hospitals. And we are instituting a new cleaning protocol at our schools, in our public transportation, and elsewhere to contain any potential spread. This isn't our first rodeo - we are fully coordinated, we are fully mobilized, and we are fully prepared to deal with the situation as it develops."

 

Last week the Governor announced he is requesting a $40 million appropriation for the New York State Department of Health to hire additional staff, procure equipment and any other resources necessary to respond to the potential novel coronavirus pandemic. The Governor will also propose legislation to clarify authority for governor to take certain statewide actions and measures in response to the novel coronavirus outbreak as needed. DOH is ALSO convening local health departments and hospitals statewide to review protocols, best practices and procedures to help ensure they are prepared to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus.

 

On Saturday, New York State received notification that the FDA approved Wadsworth lab's Emergency Use Application — EUA — request to begin novel coronavirus testing using the test that the State developed and validated at the Wadsworth Center. This test will allow the State to perform testing more rapidly than sending to the CDC and to respond expeditiously when and if there is a positive case to better protect the public health of New Yorkers. Upon receipt of lab specimens, the Wadsworth Center can complete testing within three to five hours.

 

The Wadsworth Center began testing on Saturday evening. Wadsworth's current testing capacity is as many as 200 tests per day, and the State Department of Health will work to expand capacity through expanded lab hours and the hiring additional staff.

 

The approval comes at a critical time as the CDC and the DOH have expanded testing criteria to include travel from other countries - specifically Italy, South Korea and Iran - and others without travel history where individuals are hospitalized with respiratory symptoms with no other explanation.

 

So far, Wadsworth Center has received samples from 4 New Yorkers for testing: 2 came back negative; 1 came back positive; and 1 is still pending. Previously, samples from 28 New Yorkers were sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for testing, all 28 came back negative.

 

While there is currently no vaccine for the novel coronavirus, everyday preventative actions can help stop the spread of this and other respiratory viruses:

 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Individuals who are experiencing symptoms and may have traveled to areas of concern or have been in contact with somebody who has traveled to these areas should call ahead to their healthcare provider before presenting for treatment.

 

New Yorkers can call the State hotline at 1-888-364-3065, where experts can answer questions regarding the novel coronavirus. In addition, the Department has a dedicated website which was created as a resource with updated information for New Yorkers. The Department has also launched two public service announcements on the novel coronavirus, one featuring State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker and another with general information, that are running statewide in multiple languages.

March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Spurred by advocacy, President Ronald Reagan declared March to be Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in 1987. The deinstitutionalization movement of the seventies and early eighties had laid the foundation for significant social change, and the presidential proclamation called upon Americans to provide the “encouragement and opportunities” necessary for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their potential.

As those citizens began living within the general community in larger numbers, programs to provide career planning, job coaching and supported employment began to emerge. The idea that individuals with developmental disabilities could become productive members of the workforce was new to many people, and entrenched preconceptions had to be overcome.

With the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990, workplace discrimination against people with disabilities became sanctionable. The expectations of young people with developmental disabilities and their parents began to shift. Productive, self-directed lives within the community increasingly became the goal, and (increasingly) an obtainable goal.

Now 33 years later, the month of March highlights the contributions and needs of the estimated four million Americans living with a developmental disability. The power of ability over disability is all around us as people with autism, cerebral palsy and other disabilities blaze new trails. Today, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are living and working in the community; pursuing higher education; developing their faith; falling in love and getting married; and making their voices heard in all aspects of life.

As people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the nation become increasingly visible in our daily lives, Allegany Arc strives to build more welcoming communities through education and outreach. We hope you will join us this month as we celebrate the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Developmental disabilities awareness starts now.

Learn how Allegany Arc’s supports and services are advancing the concerns and interests of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Allegany County by visiting www.AlleganyArc.org.

Wellsville: Vermont folk duo to perform at Nancy Howe Auditorium

Fire rips through Potter County barn - fire crews from PA & NY respond

Flames ripped through a Potter County barn Monday morning. Shortly before 10 a.m. Genesee fire and ambulance were called to a "fully involved" barn fire at 2056 Peet Brook Road in Andrews Settlement, Allegany Township. Additional help was brought in from Coudersport and Shinglehouse. From New York, Wellsville, Willing and Whitesville fire departments also responded to the scene. Bolivar, Wellsville and Andover departments were assigned standby assignments. Responding fire units said smoke was visible for some distance. Some vehicles near the barn were charred. It is unclear if any animals were injured.
After about two hours, mutual aid departments began to return to service. The cause is under investigation.

Obituary: Robert L. Burnett Sr.,70, Wellsville

WELLSVILLE - Robert L. Burnett Sr.,70, of 4192A Bolivar Road passed away Friday, February28, 2020 at the Wellsville Manor Care Center. Robert was born November 28, 1949 in Oil City PA the son of the late Douglas H. and Betty (Blum) Burnett.

Robert enjoyed his friends, and the staff at both S.T.E.L. and Wellsville Manor.

He is survived by four siblings, Rebecca Gayton, Jerrie (Dana) Strang and Clyde (Leslie) Mott all of Bradford, PA, and Cheri Main of Bolivar, three children, Douglas Burnett of Hinsdale, Tracy Burnett and Robert Burnett Jr. both of Allegany, several grandchildren, and niece sand nephews.  At Robert's request, there will be no visitation or service. Please consider memorial donations to the Activities Department at Wellsville Manor. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Allegany County: Upcoming Training Notice: Freedom Of Information Law/Open Meetings Law Training - free

Livingston County Sheriff's Blotter

Joseph G. Gagne, 30, Dalton, NY, was arrested and charged with Criminal Purchase of a Weapon and Falsifying Business Records 1^st Degree on February 19.  Gagne was released on an appearance ticket to address charges in North Dansville Village Court on a later date. 

Scott M. Adams, 38, Caledonia, NY, was arrested and charged February 19, with Harassment 2^nd Degree. Adams was released on an appearance ticket to answer charges in York Town Court on a later date. 

Kareem A. Walker, 43, Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged with 5 counts of Criminal Contempt 2^nd Degree on February 23, and following LC-CAP arraignment Walker was released on his own recognizance to reply to charges in Leicester Town Court on a later date. 

Alexander M. Gravesandy, 33, Leroy, NY, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Criminal Contempt on February 21, and following LC-CAP arraignment was ordered held in the Livingston County Jail on $2,000 cash bail.  Gravesandy will address charges in Geneseo Village Court on a later date. 

Brianna M. Uhl, 27, Conesus, NY, was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle and Speeding on February 22, and was released on an appearance ticket to satisfy charges in Livonia Town Court on a later date. 

Korey M. Buzzell, 44, Conesus, NY, was arrested February 24, charged with Criminal Contempt 2^nd Degree,  Following LC-CAP arraignment, Buzzell was released on his own recognizance to address charges in Livonia Town Court on a later date. 
Tapanga L.A.M. Landon, 18, Dansville, NY, was arrested February 20, and charged with Assault 3^rd Degree. Landon was issued an appearance ticket to address charges in Mt. Morris Village Court on a later date. 

Matthew J. Wurtenberg, 32, Geneseo, NY, was charged February 25, with Operating a Motor Vehicle with Registration Suspended, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3^rd Degree, Unlicensed Operator and Operating a Motor Vehicle Without an Inspection Certificate.  Wurtenberg was released with an appearance ticket to reply to charges in Geneseo Town Court on a later date. 

 
Emma K. Allen, 30, Farmington, NY, was arrested February 24, and charged with Issuing a Bad Check. Allen was issued an appearance ticket to address charges in Geneseo Village Court on a later date. 

Jamie L. Smith, 46, Gates, NY, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3nd Degree, Unlicensed Operator, Displaying a Forged Inspection Certificate and Inadequate/No Exhaust on February 26.  Smith was released with an appearance ticket to respond to charges in Geneseo Town Court on a later date.

Allegany County Legislators, IDA Recognize Travel Center Construction Progress in Celebration Planned for March 12

BELMONT – The Allegany County Board of Legislators and Allegany County Industrial Development Agency (ACIDA) will formally celebrate the recent construction progress of the new Quicklee’s Travel Center at the Crossroads site on Thursday, March 12 at noon.  Following three years of work to develop the Crossroads site, Allegany County and IDA officials are excited to mark the successful completion of the Crossroads Waterline Project and commencement of construction on the Quicklee’s Travel Center, projected to open in the fall of 2020.

 

After successfully completing the Crossroads Waterline project this past February, an initiative that was roughly 12 years in the making, development at the Crossroads site has taken off with the construction of the new Quicklee’s Travel Center, a project that was first announced back in August 2019.  The Travel Center will include a fueling station, convenience store, and will house a small café (the café is part of a chain operation that has yet to be announced). 

 

The development of the waterline and the Travel Center support the long-term vision for the Crossroads site, which includes adding a hotel and restaurant to the area in the future – with the addition of a brand name hotel anticipated as soon as next year.  Projected benefits of development at the Crossroads site include adding new jobs and increased revenue from sales tax, bed tax, and property taxes for the county.

 

 “One goal of the Crossroads project has always been to take full advantage of the site’s ideal location at the intersection of Route 19 and Interstate-86 in an effort to attract more tourists and travelers to stop within the borders of Allegany County,” said Craig Clark, Executive Director of the ACIDA.  “The Quicklee’s Travel Center is the first important step in drawing travelers into our county, supporting our three local colleges and industries, and capturing additional sales tax dollars for the county.”

 

“We are extremely pleased to invite our county legislators, IDA Board Members, local town government officials, state and federal officials, and Quicklee’s Developers, all of whom had a hand in making this vision for development a reality, to share in our excitement on March 12,” concluded Clark.

New York has first case of coronavirus

Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued this statement Sunday evening:

"This evening we learned of the first positive case of novel coronavirus — or COVID-19 — in New York State. The patient, a woman in her late thirties, contracted the virus while traveling abroad in Iran, and is currently isolated in her home. The patient has respiratory symptoms, but is not in serious condition and has been in a controlled situation since arriving to New York.

"The positive test was confirmed by New York's Wadsworth Lab in Albany, underscoring the importance of the ability for our state to ensure efficient and rapid turnaround, and is exactly why I advocated for the approval from Vice President Pence that New York was granted just yesterday.

"There is no cause for surprise -- this was expected. As I said from the beginning, it was a matter of when, not if there would be a positive case of novel coronavirus in New York.

"Last week I called for the Legislature to pass a $40 million emergency management authorization to confront this evolving situation -- I look forward to its swift passage.

"There is no reason for undue anxiety -- the general risk remains low in New York. We are diligently managing this situation and will continue to provide information as it becomes available."

Incomplete Obituary: Gordon W. “Gordie” Visseau, 69, Bolivar

BOLIVAR, N.Y.---Gordon W. “Gordie” Visseau, 69, a lifelong resident of Bolivar, passed away with his loving family by his side on Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville, from complications of surgery.

Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, Pa., are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.

Scio Lions Club announces upcoming pancake breakfasts

Village of Wellsville donates surplus water treatment equipment

The Village of Wellsville recently donated surplus water treatment monitoring equipment to the New York Rural Water Association. J. Andrew Herman is the Association CEO. In a letter to Mayor Randy Shayler, he wrote:
"Many small communities across rural New York State have issues with funding the purchase of such equipment. Your kind and generous donation will go a long way in helping a few communities upgrade their equipment, and maintain regulatory compliance with the rules and regulations set forth by the State of New York.
We appreciate your generosity, and will ensure this valuable equipment is provided to communities in need, and we will be sure to provide them with information regarding the donation from the Village of Wellsville."
Specifically, Herman recognized Mayor Shayler, the Board of Trustees, Director of Public Works Bill Whitfield and Chief Water Plant Operator Dana Harris.

Obituary: Pauline E. Buchholz, 84, of Genesee, PA

Pauline E. Buchholz, 84, of Genesee, PA, died Saturday, February 29, 2020 in Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport. Services will be private. Burial will be in Champlin Cemetery, Westfield, PA. A complete obituary will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Company wants to modify proposed Steuben Countywind project

Later this week, Baron Winds LLC is expected to file a new petition with the New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment. Baron Winds wants to amend wind turbine locations, access roads and electrical collection and for an increase in Turbine height. Last September, Baron received a certificate from the siting board to construct a 242 Mega Watt wind-powered electric generating facility in the Towns of Cohocton, Dansville, Fremont and Wayland.

Village of Andover wants to sell parking lot

The Village of Andover is accepting bids for the property known as Main Street Government Lot, Andover, NY tax map # 216.15-2-3.2. This property is no longer needed for municipal purposes. The sole purpose for selling this parking lot is for economic growth and or expansion of a current business. Bids will be due by March 9, 2020.

Wellsville: Kear graduates from Rural Police Training Academy

Pictured left to right Chief Tim O'Grady, Officer Steve Kear, Lieutenant Josh Kear

The Wellsville Police Department is proud to announce the graduation of Officer Steve Kear from the Rural Police Training Academy in Batavia, NY. Officer Kear will continue field training and he will eventually serve the police department as a part-time officer. Steve Kear was awarded third place as Top Shot in his academy class.

Cuba woman, two others charged in Olean burglary

State Police arrested three people Saturday afternoon after a burglary complaint in the City of Olean. All three were taken into custody at 301 Coleman Street. Arrested were:

1. Lilly M. Willover, 19, of Cuba, charged with felony burglary.
2. Layton T. Walker, 20, Bradford, Pennsylvania, charged with felony burglary, criminal mischief and criminal possession of stolen property.
3. A name-protected 18-year-old female, charged with felony burglary. Walker was detained, the others were released on their own recognizance.